" . . . the novelty was, for John Hutton, that I was an ex miner."

There's my concern. a) For Hutton it was a novelty to have someone from the working classes as an adviser. b) You were only an ex-miner at the DH because of your career path has taken you from that position. Had you still been a miner, Hutton would not have been the slightest bit interested in having you as an advisor. Or a nurse, cleaner, porter, x-ray technician, receptionist, auxiliary or any number of other vital jobs in the NHS where people understand the real issues from (excuse the pun) the bottom up.

This inequality lies at the heart of government regardless of political party it seems, although there's no doubt the tories are far less inclined to listen to ordinary people - that part of the fundamental nature of the party - self-interest.

I suppose the great hope was a reformed lords might provide an opportunity to get ordinary folk into the political process. Instead of party wonks, toffs, wealthy benefactors, occasional celebs and religious types people who had worked in their community (e.g. a carer with 25 years experience, a social worker who has extensive child protection experience etc could be made members of the house; people with zero financial interest but lots of relevant knowledge.

Sadly, as with the previous bunch, Cameron has given peerages to rich party donors which is despicable, and plenty more to party toadies. Normal service is resumed :-(